HMPV Scare: 'Precautions Needed' But 'Don't Panic', Says Health Ministry Advisor

The human metapneumovirus (HMPV) outbreak in China, and two cases in Bengaluru have prompted health authorities in India to take precautionary measures. Speaking to NDTV Profit, Dr. Rakesh Verma, principal consultant at the Ministry of Health, addressed the situation and provided guidance on how to manage this new 'threat'.

Speaking about the virus, Dr. Verma urged the public to remain vigilant, but not panic. "We should not be scared, but we must take all the precautions possible, as this is a virus that transmits through respiratory things, much like Covid-19," he said.

For diagnosis, Verma said a throat or nasal swab, followed by a PCR or multiplex PCR test is used. While these tests are available in India, modifications may be necessary to tailor them specifically for HMPV.

"These tests are already available in the country, but they will need to be modified to be more specific to this virus," Verma said.

The HMPV, which has been in circulation for some time, is causing renewed alarm due to its mutation rate. Unlike many other viruses, HMPV, an RNA virus, evolves rapidly, changing its structure and properties frequently. This mutating behavior makes it difficult to predict the virus’s impact.

"This virus is very unpredictable. It can change from one shape to another within a short period, which makes it potentially dangerous," Dr Verma explained.

When questioned about whether HMPV poses a similar danger to COVID-19, Dr Verma noted that both viruses belong to the same family, and while detailed reports from China remain censored, there is concern that HMPV could be as dangerous as COVID-19.

"Considering whether it poses a similar danger or not, the news from China is still very restricted, but both viruses belong to the same family. So, it could be as lethal as COVID" he said.

HMPV primarily spreads through respiratory droplets, meaning it can be transmitted when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Dr. Verma emphasised that the same precautions followed during the COVID-19 pandemic—such as wearing masks, maintaining social distance, and frequent hand washing—remain crucial.

"With every cough, every sneeze, an infected person can spread the disease to several people within a 6-meter radius. That’s why we must continue to follow the same precautions as we did for COVID," he added.

Regarding the treatment and vaccine status, Dr. Verma clarified that there is no direct vaccine for HMPV. "Currently, there is no vaccine available for the virus. The treatment is focused on managing symptoms," he explained.